schlemiel

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In some regards this narrator, a husband and father, is Mr. Lerner’s most mature alter ego, but he often seems like the same schlemiel as the feckless grad student in “Leaving the Atocha Station.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

Romano’s part here, as well-intentioned, Queens-dwelling, “Rocky”-quoting schlemiel Leo Russo, is a sort of enjoyably familiar hybrid of his previous roles.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2023

Played by Noah Segan, the film’s writer-director, Francis is Jewish and speaks Yiddish; sometimes schlep and schlemiel just make his points better.

From New York Times • Dec. 9, 2022

As Costanza, Mr. Stiller was perpetually struggling to control his temper, blood pressure and contempt for his son, George, a balding schlemiel played by Jason Alexander.

From Washington Post • May 11, 2020

“No, like an utter schlemiel, I just walked in there. I don’t know what I was thinking.”

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros